Wheatland Electric Cooperative Inc. (WEC) announced that the Barton County Fair has been awarded a $1,000 grant from the WEC Sharing Success Fund to help fund the purchase of a new refrigerator for the fair’s food stand, replacing an inoperative unit.
Held annually since 1899, the Barton County Fair is a long-standing tradition that celebrates the region’s agricultural roots and strong community spirit. The fair showcases an exciting array of events, including 4-H competitions, livestock shows, exhibits, live entertainment, and carnival rides, drawing visitors of all ages for a week of fun and connection.
Beyond the festivities, the fair plays a vital role in youth development by providing a platform for young people to showcase their skills, responsibility, and hard work through hands-on learning and friendly competition. It fosters leadership, confidence, and a strong sense of accomplishment – values that carry far beyond the show ring.
The new refrigerator will help ensure that perishable food items and essential supplies can be safely stored on-site, enhancing both convenience and food safety during the fair and other events. This replacement helps support the dedicated volunteers and vendors who help make the fair a success and ensures a positive experience for all who attend.
The Scott Community Foundation began formally accepting applications for grants from the WEC Sharing Success Fund from community-based organizations on December 1, 2012. Since then, the application process has been moved internally and is currently handled directly by WEC. This year, WEC and CoBank have each contributed $15,000 to the fund. The program will continue to run until the funds are exhausted. Since 2012, WEC’s Sharing Success Fund has made $195,000 available to community-based organizations and projects across their service territory.
Community based organizations interested in receiving funding from the WEC Sharing Success Fund can apply online at https://www.weci.net/sharing-success-program. Questions should be referred to Alli Conine, director of member services & corporate communications, at 620-874-4563 or aconine@weci.net.